The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has reported a significant escalation in synthetic drug production and trafficking across East and Southeast Asia, particularly highlighting the notorious “Golden Triangle,” where the borders of Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand converge. This worrying trend is underscored by a record seizure of 236 tonnes of methamphetamine in 2024, reflecting a 24 percent increase from the previous year.

Thailand has emerged as a notable player in this context, becoming the first nation in the region to seize over 100 tonnes of methamphetamine in a single year—specifically interdicting 130 tonnes. Despite the commendable law enforcement actions, the report indicates that the actual volume of methamphetamine entering the market remains alarmingly high. “The 236 tons represent only the amount seized; much more is reaching the market,” stated Benedikt Hofmann, the UNODC’s acting regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

This surge in trafficking can be attributed to various factors, notably the ongoing civil unrest in Myanmar that has created a precarious environment for drug trade expansion. Since the military takeover in February 2021, there has been a notable uptick in drug flows, affecting not only East and Southeast Asia but also reaching as far as South Asia, particularly Northeast India.

Countries neighboring Myanmar are being increasingly recognized as crucial transit points for drugs emanating from the Golden Triangle. Inshik Sim, the lead analyst for Southeast Asia and the Pacific at the UNODC, noted the rapid expansion of trafficking routes connecting Cambodia with Myanmar through Laos PDR, as well as significant maritime trafficking routes that link Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. Sabah, Malaysia, is identified as a pivotal transit hub in these operations.

The UNODC report also addresses demographic shifts in drug use patterns, indicating an increase in drug users among older populations in countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Interestingly, while the number of younger drug users has decreased, this trend may be a direct outcome of effective drug use prevention campaigns implemented across these nations.

Hofmann stressed the necessity for the region to enhance its investment in both preventative measures and strategies aimed at reducing supply in addressing the escalating challenges posed by synthetic drugs. Through comprehensive efforts and collaboration among nations, a sustainable solution can be developed to combat the synthetic drug crisis plaguing the region.

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